China Signals Shifting Stance on Taiwan as Military Tensions Rise
• China dropped mention of "peaceful reunification" with Taiwan in latest government report, signaling potential shift towards use of force • China plans to increase military spending by 7.2% this year to $231 billion, the largest hike in 5 years • Wang Huning said China aims to "resolutely combat" any signs of Taiwan independence ahead of 2024 • Expert says increased military spending indicates China wants to be prepared to win a war over Taiwan if needed • Meanwhile, Taiwan appears to be building up its own advanced weapons, as US expects it would intervene militarily if China invades